Roberto Martinez brings his team to St Mary's today one point and place behind Arsenal in the race for the top-four.

And former Espanyol boss Pochettino believes the Toffees dream of big European nights at Goodison Park has been aided by a style brought to the Premier League by him and his staff.

The Argentine has installed a high-pressing game at Saints since taking over in January 2013 and reckons the blue side of Merseyside have followed suit since Martinez replaced David Moyes last summer.

Pochettino said: "Ever since we have been here, for a year and five months, we have installed a style and I think Everton have only played our style for a year.

"I think we did it before them, playing this way. We have similar styles and it would be a brilliant achievement if they were to get a top-four place.

"The fact that my club is compared to Everton is an honour and we are going to try and win a game against a very good side."

MANAGER OF THE SEASON: Pochettino believes Roberto Martinez is a contender for manager of the season [GETTY]

“I think we did it before them, playing this way”

Mauricio Pochettino

"In the last ten years they have always been in the top ten or top eight while Southampton has only been in the Premier League a couple of seasons.

"Everton have a massive squad compared to us but I like the comparison because it means we are doing things well."

Pochettino added there was no reason why Martinez could not be crowned manager of the season above rival Brendan Rodgers were his side to sneak fourth spot.

Pochettino said: "Why not? Everton are playing great football under Martinez. It is clear that he is recognised as a great manager.

"He left Spain very young to join Wigan but he always kept the essence of Spain and he is one of the best managers in this league."

Meanwhile, Southampton director Les Reed has insisted there haven't been any official approaches for their England stars Adam Lallana and Luke Shaw.

Reed said: "As we stand, there have been no enquiries or offers for any of our players and no deals about to be done. No club has been given permission to talk to any of our players and that will remain so."